Kirk Stroke Unlikely To Impact Congressional Battles

Illinois Senator Mark Kirk's stroke may not have much effect on upcoming legislation.  There isn't much on tap soon except for extension of the payroll tax cut and Kirk's absence isn't expected to make much difference. Kirk's Senate Office Monday said, "As Senator Kirk begins his recovery, his office will remain open to constituents."

Complaining of dizziness, the Highland Park Republican checked himself into Lake Forest Hospital Saturday where doctors found a torn right carotid artery in his neck. He was transferred to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago where other tests showed he'd suffered a stroke. Early Monday Kirk underwent surgery to relieve swelling around his brain.

Physicians said that since he's only 52 and in good health they were confident he'll recover intellectual function but might not regain all his physical abilities.

In the pic:  Mark Kirk campaigning for his eat at the Summer Sunset Parade two years ago.